Melanie (![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small} myprimalscream) wrote,@ 2008-05-23 09:53:00 |
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MI5 - CATCH UP
The Santa Cruz mountains are burning - I live not far from them and the smoke yesterday was crazy thick in the morning. That is my inspiration for this weeks MI-5:
1. What is the worst natural disaster you have personally experienced?
~ Hurricane Andrew, I was living in Ft. Lauderdale at the time. There was a lot of destruction but the majority of the damage happened 45 minutes to an hour south of me. As the storm was passing over, we had no idea what was happening as far as the severity of the storm. We knew it was a major hurricane for sure but seeing the wind & rain & everything whipping around, it was all quiet amazing. hypnotic in a way. We didn't see the heaviest parts just the beginning and the end because we had to keep ourselves away from the windows and doors & the windows were covered up. We did however go outside during the eye of the storm because it was much calmer and checked things out a bit. We even tried a little game of basketball but the wind kept blowing the ball away. That was pretty funny. I think , looking back, if we had been more aware of the devastation and destruction, we might not have gone outside at all. I remember a few days later seeing a minivan driving down the road with a huge hole in their back window & the rest of the glass was shattered around it and they had spray painted a sign on their car that said "Hurricane Andrew came through here" Check out this Youtube Video for a funky song & some images of what the storm was like. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqZ5GeYAs
2. You were forced to evacuate your home. When you are finally allowed back your house sustained fire damage- but isn't a complete loss. What one room do you hope remained untouched by the fire and why?
- The living room - It is the only room where I keep the stuff I want to keep. Everything in my bedroom (except what is ON my hard drive) is replaceable. I can't say the same about some of the things in my living room and even those that are, its more expensive to replace what is out there than it is to replace what is in my bedroom.
3. The smoke was so thick yesterday morning until the wind shifted that the sun was shrouded and actually cast an eerie orangish glow over things. Tell us about something or an experience that gave you an eerie feeling.
~ A dream I had once not to long ago, I remember being creeped out about it the whole day. Now, I can't remember anything about it to share it with you.
4. Lots of people are descending on the small town of Corrilitas CA to offer support. The small general store has become a makeshift command center where people gather for support and information. Does your community have a place that everyone would gather at? Where would it be?
3. I love to cook, but in my wake the kitchen looks like a tornado hit it! What is something you love to make and eat but only do it on certain occasions because preparation or clean-up is a hassle?
~ I honestly can't think of anything off the top of my head except to say Everything. What I mean is I hate cooking for 1 & I hate throwing things away. Coming from an environment where there were always tons of people around to cook for, now that I am basically on my own, I am not very successful cooking for just myself. As a result, I frequently find food going to waste so I don't cook meals or bake that often unless there is someway I can be creative with it in several ways or find folks to share it with so that it doesn't go to waste.
05/02/2008 Entry: "Pastor Dave's First MI-5"
Pastor Dave says:
"Hello Blogging Family,
This is my first time at coming up with weekly the questions. I hope its OK with protocol - I'm going to give you FIVE RIDDLES to solve. My sister sent them to me earlier this week. ENJOY!"
#1 A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven't eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him?
~Lions - If they haven't eaten in 3 yrs they'd be dead
#2 A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him under water for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How can this be?
~She photographed him, developed the print & then hung the photo
#3 What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and gray when you throw it away?
~Your Checking account? (the real ans was charcoal)
#4 Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday?
~Yesterday, Today & Next Day? (yesterday today & tomorrow)
#5 This is an unusual paragraph. I'm curious as to just how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it. It looks so ordinary and plain that you would think nothing was wrong with it. In fact, nothing is wrong with it! It is highly unusual though. Study it and think about it, but you still may not find anything odd. But if you work at it a bit, you might find out. Try to do so without any coaching!
~Ya got me, English has never been my strong subject I want to believe there is something grammatical about it. Or maybe it's a counting thing - either way, I am missing it (real ans.. There are no "e's" in the paragraph)
04/25/2008 Entry: "Jim Takes the MI-5 Wheel"
1. What is your personal policy regarding locking your car?
~It depends where I am. At work, all the time unless I have someone coming by to get something from me while I am at work and all too often (to Kari's disappointment) it ends up locked then too. At home though, its a 50/50 thing. If nothing is in it then I leave it unlocked unless however I am walking to my door in the dark, then I hit the locks off & on so that the headlights illuminate my way.
2. If you had to do it all again would you choose the same career path?
~I have learned so much and had some many experiences & got to meet quite a few folks I might not otherwise have encountered had I not gone the path I did. Then again there are things that I would have liked to have tried had I done things differently but there is always still time. It would have been awesome if back when the internet was new I had the foresight to own a few big domain names before the mega cooperations wanted them. The folks who jumped on that opportunity found they were able to trade for some good cheese.
3. What is something you hope to do this summer?
~Grow a successful garden & visit the islands, oh & most importantly feel the warmth of the sun on my skin on a consistent basis. I miss the natural heat of that huge glowing thing in the sky!!!! hmph - Global warming my butt!!!!
4. Tell us something you are thankful for right now.
~My dog. He has the best personality and is the coolest companion. I am very fortunate to have him.
5. Tell us of a book, movie, tv show, webisode, author, CD, musician, comedian or any form of entertainment you have been digging lately.
~ABC's LOST
Over a year ago I decided to cancel my Direct TV that I had subscribed to for over 5 years. I had gotten to the point where I was only watching Prime Time shows on the 3 major stations & the season finale's were coming up & I didn't want to pay to watch reruns. I had been so busy with life that I didn't miss the TV & shortly into last season they had the writers strike so I saw no reason to turn it back on. I have grown accustomed to only having CBS (although I do miss some of my favs on the other stations). At the time Lost 1st aired I had missed the 1st half of it but I kept hearing the buzz of how great it was and decided I needed to see it from the beginning. Because I had shut of Direct TV I decided to Netflix again. One of the 1st TV Series in my queue was ABC's LOST. I stayed up until 2:30 some nights watching the DVD's. I was/am so sucked into this show. It has great writing, drama, action, twists and plot lines. If you haven't seen it, I recommend it but I also recommend not watching it in the middle. You MUST watch if from the beginning. I Caught an episode on ABC before I went Analog & lost my over air signal - Yea living in the boonies!!! Honestly I was not interested in the show after watching that episode because I just didn't get it. I mean I understood the show but I didn't get the flow and writing and didn't feel the characters. That is because of how it is written, you do need to watch it from the beginning. Its like trying to watch 24 from the 8th episode, you just don't get it. ABC's LOST is some seriously good TV
04/18/2008 Entry: "Bill's Beloved's MI-5"
His beloved (wife) says: "Here are some more questions from "You Gotta Be Kidding!" a book I purchased at Julia's book fair several months ago. The only rule is: You must choose from one of the 2 answers, "neither one" is not an acceptable answer. If you would like you can explain your choice."
Would You Rather:
1. Sleep each night with 2 harmless bats in your bedroom OR Always have 5 pigeons hanging out in your bathroom?
~ I am going with the bat's here. They don't make that much noise or that much of a mess & I have a huge yard and have seen a few field mice (thanks to the cat) so I am guessing the bat's might not be a bad edition. Also the question didn't specify if they were caged or not so I am going on the assumption they are :-)
Now if the pigeons were the "GoodFeathers" I might have to ponder this question a little longer.
2. Sleep on the sidewalk for a week straight in normal weather OR Sleep for 1 night on the sidewalk in the pouring rain?
~ Considering how uncomfortable sleeping on the sidewalk would be, I'll take the rain, and get it over in one night.
3. Never be able to smile OR Never be able to dream when you sleep?
~ I love to smile, I feel the endorphins kick in every time my lips curl up. I can't imagine not ever doing it. Dreaming however is cool too but often, I don't recall them and the ones I do tend to be a bit odd so I wouldn't feel like I was missing out if I never had one again.
4. Not be able to read OR Not be able to talk?
~ Most certainly talk, I can sign a little bit & write all I want so I can still communicate. If I couldn't read my world would be seriously limited and I would miss out on so much amazing knowledge not to mention some pretty entertaining stories.
5. Bang your funny bone 5 times in a row OR Listen for 20 minutes to someone scraping their nails down a chalkboard?
~ Bring on the chalkboard, that sound never bothered me.
04/11/2008 Entry: "Bill's Sister's Restaurant MI-5"
Bill's sister said:
"This week's five is a little different... I'd like you to pick five restaurants that you have never been to before. Go to their online menu, and tell me what you would order. I know. I always have food on the brain!"
These are in no particular order other than how I happened to pull them up on line.
1. http://www.carouseldinnertheatre.co
APPETIZER - SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE FONDUE
Creamy fondue crock blended with cheese, baked and served with freshly-baked French baguette
MAIN ATTRACTION ENTRE - SEAFOOD TRIPLE PLAY
Tender filet of salmon topped with snow crab stuffing and crispy bread crumbs escorted by two mouth-watering shrimp served with light lemon cream sauce. Accompanied by sun-dried tomato rice pilaf
DESSERT - FUNNEL CAKE SUNDAE - Golden fried funnel cake tossed in cinnamon sugar topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry.
2. http://www.medievaltimes.com/home.aspx
Guests feast on garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare rib, herb-basted potatoes, pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of select beverages.
3. http://mysterycafe.com/shows_mysterycru
The meal goes with the show - the current one is: The Mobfather
Delectable Antipasto Salad
A wonderful refreshing feast of crisp greens mingled with mortadella, capiocola, salami, and provolone cheese; vegetables, tasty Mediterranean olives and pepperocinis drizzled with our minced fresh herbs, balsamic Dijon vinaigrette
Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Topped with our own savory fresh Basil Roma Plum Tomato Sauce
Chicken Marsala
Light and delicious with sautéed mushrooms
Mouthwatering Meatballs
From Mama Lena’s Kitchen, served with freshly grated cheese
Gala Apple Crisp
Scented with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves
4. http://www.anthonysdinnertheater.co
Again the meal is already decided
Meatball Minestrone Soup
Broadway Salad
Shrimp Scampi on Skewer
Stuffed Shells Alfredo with Meatball
Tiramisu
Vanilla Ice Cream
Coffee
5. http://www.benihana.com/
Yes I am all about entertainment when it comes to eating out
04/04/2008 Entry: "Welcome to the Neighborhood MI5"
Amy says: Since we have some new peeps playing along I thought I would do some basic questions. Since I love INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO I thought I would use the Bernard Pivot questions asked by James Lipton. Since we only usually ask five questions feel free to just answer the five questions you like best…or answer all 10 for extra brownie points.
1. What is your favorite word?
~Pickle: I just love the sound of the word
2. What is your least favorite word?
~ That would be a certain curse word that describes female genitalia in a very derogatory way and is also used as an insult when directing it at another individual. Everything about it just reeks of negativity & disrespect. Not to mention the sound the word makes is just awful.
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
~ Music is amazing at altering my moods but a good story (fact or fiction) can really get me charged up in a creative & spiritual manner.
4. What turns you off creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
~ Negativity & stubbornness
5. What sound or noise do you love?
~The honest laughter of young children
6. What sound or noise do you hate?
~ Verbal abuse
7. What is your favorite curse word?
~ Shazbot
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
~ Something that allows me to be creative that involves some form of information gathering research or School Guidance Councilor :-)
9. What profession would you not like to do?
~ Forensic Pathologist (I see dead people)
10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
~ I'm so glad you made it, welcome home. I've got so much to tell you but 1st do you want to hear a funny joke?
03/28/2008 Entry: "Paddy's All About Jobs MI-5"
1) Think back now. What was your first REAL job ... you know, one that you had a W-2 from at the end of the year. Tell us about it:
I am pretty sure it was McDonalds when I was 14. I can't seem to remember a job where I actually filled out a W2 before that. I worked there the entire school year. I only took time off twice. Once was to go home early because I accidentally reached into the fry oil. It was a reflex action. I dropped the fry tongs & instinctively reached in after them. I experienced a miracle that day. My hand turned beat red fast & thanks to quick thinking co-workers & those cool orange pumpkin happy meals my hand went into a bucket of ice mighty fast & as a result I didn't even have a blister. I did go through a lot of ice though & it was several hours before I braved removing my hand from the bucket. The worst thing that happened was my hand was pink for a few days. Amazing & true. I ended up quitting when just before summer when I broke my big toe. I had to be on crutches for a few weeks so I took some time off then shortly after I returned to work, I decided it was time for me to enjoy being a kid for a while.
2) Everybody has had a favorite job, perhaps one that they are still in. What was yours?
I worked as the inventory control supervisor for Metro PCS. It wasn't very challenging but I enjoyed it. mostly because I had a fun staff and the company was pretty great too. I enjoy what I do now for the most part. More than other jobs I have done, including those for the same company. There are parts of my job that I enjoy much more than any other job I have ever worked before. I love the chance to teach & be appreciated for my ideas, knowledge & creativity. I often volunteer for or create opportunities with this company so that I am exposed to those situations.
3) Remember that job that you thought would be great ... that wasn't? Tell us about your biggest career-related error in judgment:
Working for RAINBOW - It was great money and great people and I love the product but I discovered a fear/anxiety I had that I didn't previously know existed. Years after I worked for another company that was similar in style (Silversand Photography) but provided a much different approach & was much easier to market. It helped me to deal with this fear and become more of a people person. It also helped me hone my sales skills. Neither of these were my biggest career error. I seem to recall working for a company for a very short time and quitting because I didn't feel the fit was right & didn't like the high pressure. Not to mention I felt the demographic they were marketing to was all wrong so for me, that career was short lived. So short that I can't even recall the name of the company. I want to say it was SkyTel but I can't be certain. I feel as if the name was Metro Communications or Uni-something. I can't be certain. They were one of the 1st companies to introduce 2 way messaging pagers. The company focus however was the professional business. My thought was they would be better off with the teens & 20-30 demographic. I seem to recall that not long after I left, so did the company.
4) What is more important to you in your career choice: Money or Satisfaction? Or both ... or something else? Explain:
As long as I can pay my bills & enjoy my life, I don't care how little I make. I just want to love what I do and enjoy my time while I am away from home and be appreciated.
5) OK, it's dream job time. For the sake of this exercise, we'll assume that you can at least make a comfortable living wage from the work ... regardless of its nature. So, what is it that you would choose to do, day in, day out, to earn your daily bread?
I would love to be one of the folks who got to travel all over and share interesting findings with others.
Example - Great Vacation homes, Incredible getaways, Amusement parks, kind of like that chick from the travel channel Samantha Brown or if I was skilled, I would love to be a carpenter like Amy Wynn from Trading Spaces or Paige Hemmis from Extreme Makeover Home edition. Not because of money or fame. I don't care about that aspect of it - actually I prefer not to be that famous. I just think the experience to be had would be amazing.
03/23/2008 Entry: "Holy Week MI-5"
This week is the week many Christians refer to as "Holy Week." Here are five questions inspired by the week. Well, inspired in a low-brow way!
1) Palm Sunday. On this day, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt--one that had never been ridden before. What's the most unusual form of transport you've ever been on? Fighter jet? Submarine? Dog sled?
~ I am going with unicycle here - I wasn't on it long though
2) Maundy Thursday. On Thursday of Holy Week, Christ and His disciples ate the Last Supper. What would you want to eat for your final meal?
Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings & as soon as my tummy was ready for more, a turkey samich made from the luscious leftovers. Thanksgiving dinner is eaten in stages ya know :-)
3) Good Friday. Christ is crucified. What's the most excruciating physical pain you've endured? (And just so we can get some cool/interesting answers, ladies please eliminate child birth. We know that hurts wicked!)
~ The following is not for the squeamish...
Not that long ago I had developed a bartholin cyst that had grown to about the size of a quarter by the time I had decided I needed surgical assistance to have it drained/removed. Since I have an allergy to novacane, the standard numbing agent they would normally use prior to incision was not an option. What they tried using instead was apparently weaker & quite unsuccessful. After 3 incredibly painful shots of something for the pain that did not work a bit, my doctor was left with a decision, try yet again with another injection & hope this one takes or simply make an incision with the scalpel that would allow it drain with the belief that the release of pressure would reduce the pain. He went with that option. Imagine someone taking a razor blade & dicing up your girlie (or boy) parts with nothing to reduce the discomfort. Holy guacamole dip batman that was wicked painful - I screamed and the poor nurse who let me hold her arm, I am pretty sure I left her with bruising that lasted a few days. She did warn me it was going to be incredibly painful, more so than whatever I was going to do to her arm. I think she was right on the money with that one. That was the 1st and hopefully the LAST one of those I'll ever have.
4) Holy Saturday. It's sometimes observed with silence. Can you think of something significant to share dealing with silence?
~ Shhh I'm thinking
5) Easter Sunday. The Lord is raised from the dead. Even many non-religious people celebrate Easter in some fashion. Do you have a family tradition on Easter? A dinner? An egg roll (the rolling of eggs on a lawn, not a noodle rolled around napa and bok choy!)? If you're Jewish and playing along, how about a Passover family tradition?
~ Actually no, Since it's just me during the holidays I don't really do anything in the form of tradition.
I do use the time to reflect on the amazing sacrifice and love He displayed for me and allow it to motivate me to make more of an effort to remember that everyday instead of just at Easter. I also (traditionally) try to avoid the commercialism of the holiday and after, I have been known to take advantage of the discounted candy!
03/14/2008 Entry: "My Sister's Comforts of Home MI-5"
My sister Lisa says: "A benefactor wishes to set up a get away apartment for you. This is just a small place for you to escape to when the going gets rough and you just need some time away for yourself. He wants to know what things he can put in it that would really make it feel like home for you. He obviously cannot just go out and buy people or sentimental things (so don't pick those kind of items, no matter how much you might want them), but he really wants to make the place special for you. What can he buy for you with relative ease?"
1. Name one big ticket item;
A home theater complete with surround sound & all the movies I love or would love to see
2. Name two authors whose complete works you would like to see in the library;
James Patterson & God
3. Name three musical artists whose complete works you would like to see loaded into the mp3 player;
Third Day - Paolo Conte & Armik
4. Name four things you would like to see in the food pantry and/or refrigerator;
Tea, Turkey, Tuna & dill pickles
5. Name five other things.
Tons of Candles everywhere, Kohler's "Sök" with chromatherapy for the bathroom, A laptop with high speed access, a garden & a beautiful fire place.
03/07/2008 Entry: "Aunt Ginny's Retirement MI-5"
Aunt Ginny says: In 25 days I will be retiring from the best job I ever had. Naturally, it is on my mind quite a bit! Even if you don't work for pay full time right now, What do you think it will be like?
1. At what age do you see yourself retiring?
I don't think I'll make it to that age. Can't say why I just don't see myself living long enough to enjoy retirement. Maybe that is because with the way our economy is going, I can't see that I will ever have retirement as an option unless I win the lottery & I don't play.
2. Are you actively planning for that now? How?
Not really, I wish I had the discipline and understanding of the proper way to budget and save for that day, but "life" always seems to come up. Not to mention - See question 1
3. Do you think that you will "come out of retirement" at least once? To do what?
Again see #1 - I don't predict that I will have the opportunity to even go into it.
4. Will you have a career after retirement? Paid? volunteer?
I would love to volunteer but again I direct you to #1
5. Will you just take one last look around, close the door behind you, and keep walking? Or, will it be a slower, more gradual, more thoughtful process?
Eh, I see it as more of an extended vacation. I'd probably visit from time to time in the beginning. Just to see old friends & stay in the know. Eventually (if I made it) my life would present other adventures to keep me busy.
03/04/2008 Entry: "A Late MI-5"
1. How many times have you moved in your life?
More than 10 probably even more than 15.
2. What is the worst part of moving for you?
the packing & unpacking part of deciding what gets to stay & what has to go
3. What are your thoughts on long car trips?
Great if I am not alone & we get to Geocache along the way
4. Tell us your preferred method of travel.
Really Long distance - Plane but with friends and a plan for adventure along the way Car most certainly
5. Has a friend ever come through for you in a way that surprised you?
Many years ago when I was a kid, my little brother was riding his bike & around the corner came a guy speeding in his van. He hit my brother and dragged him under the van a ways until my brother ended up coming out the back. I watched the whole event. There was a woman who said she lived across the street from us but I had never talked to or seen before. When the incident happened she must have heard it because she came out of her apartment and acted as if she knew me. She felt like a favorite aunt or someone close. She comforted me with her words & her reassuring touch. Staying with me the whole time until my mother arrived. She was so calming & nurturing to me during that horrific ordeal. It surprises me still when I think back on it. Mostly because I don't remember ever seeing her before and never saw her again after that day. She was like an angel of comfort when a kid needed one the most.
02/22/2008 Entry: "Susan's MI-5"
Susan says: "These questions come, once again, from the "Coke or Pepsi" book I bought at Julia's last book fair."
1. Are you always up-to-date on the news?
Rarely. It's only recently that I began watching the Early show as part of my morning ritual
Local news I hardly ever watch. Before coming to Maine, I avoided the news. It was always full of such garbage & violence and sports. I didn't care about any of that. I use the internet now for my news source and even then I just glance the headlines & only read deeper on the things that interest me.
2. What is your favorite hot beverage?
Coffee. With chocolate mint truffle creamer - YUMMMMMY
3. Would you rather go to the museum of art or natural history?
I'd rather go to the natural history museum. I've been to a few art museums and enjoy them but I have never been to the Natural History Museum & have always wanted to go.
4. The best food comes from which country?
I am pretty sure it is Italy - I'd say Thailand but really what we get here at the restaurants is nothing like what they serve over there.
5. Would you rather bicycle through Europe or go on an African Safari?
I almost went with African Safari on this one because I LOVE photographing animals & to see them up close like that would be awesome. Then I remembered the other side of it - 100+ degree heat, biting bugs galore and so much dirt up your nose from all the dust your truck makes that you could erect a small sand box by the time your trip was through. So bicycle through Europe. What a great way to see some of those fantastic cities. Providing I was in good enough shape with a comfortable bike seat :-)
02/15/2008 Entry: "Amy's MI-5"
(This makes two weeks in a row for the MI-5. Are we back in a groove?)
Amy says: "Next week I will be going on a vacation. These are vacation inspired questions."
1. What is the longest vacation you have ever been on?
A month! In 2006 I went to California. Ok so it was a working vacation. It certainly didn't feel like work to me.
2. Where is your favorite place to vacation?
I am going with California again on this one. I only got to see a speck of it while I was there. What I saw was quite entertaining, interesting, enjoyable and with all the variety to suit any whim, it's the perfect place to visit.
3. Name some place you would like to go on vacation that you haven't been before?
New York City or Jamaica - Unless you count a cruise around the world a place.
4. When you vacation do you like to plan out every minute or roll with the flow?
I plan a few things just to have an idea or a starting point but I primarily go with the flow.
5. Are you more of an ocean person or a mountain person?
I am both. That is why I live in Maine. The ocean is across the street & a mountain (small as it may be) ends in my back yard.
Whew! That was a lot of back trackin - Ok back to gardening :-)
The Santa Cruz mountains are burning - I live not far from them and the smoke yesterday was crazy thick in the morning. That is my inspiration for this weeks MI-5:
1. What is the worst natural disaster you have personally experienced?
~ Hurricane Andrew, I was living in Ft. Lauderdale at the time. There was a lot of destruction but the majority of the damage happened 45 minutes to an hour south of me. As the storm was passing over, we had no idea what was happening as far as the severity of the storm. We knew it was a major hurricane for sure but seeing the wind & rain & everything whipping around, it was all quiet amazing. hypnotic in a way. We didn't see the heaviest parts just the beginning and the end because we had to keep ourselves away from the windows and doors & the windows were covered up. We did however go outside during the eye of the storm because it was much calmer and checked things out a bit. We even tried a little game of basketball but the wind kept blowing the ball away. That was pretty funny. I think , looking back, if we had been more aware of the devastation and destruction, we might not have gone outside at all. I remember a few days later seeing a minivan driving down the road with a huge hole in their back window & the rest of the glass was shattered around it and they had spray painted a sign on their car that said "Hurricane Andrew came through here" Check out this Youtube Video for a funky song & some images of what the storm was like. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqZ5GeYAs
2. You were forced to evacuate your home. When you are finally allowed back your house sustained fire damage- but isn't a complete loss. What one room do you hope remained untouched by the fire and why?
- The living room - It is the only room where I keep the stuff I want to keep. Everything in my bedroom (except what is ON my hard drive) is replaceable. I can't say the same about some of the things in my living room and even those that are, its more expensive to replace what is out there than it is to replace what is in my bedroom.
3. The smoke was so thick yesterday morning until the wind shifted that the sun was shrouded and actually cast an eerie orangish glow over things. Tell us about something or an experience that gave you an eerie feeling.
~ A dream I had once not to long ago, I remember being creeped out about it the whole day. Now, I can't remember anything about it to share it with you.
4. Lots of people are descending on the small town of Corrilitas CA to offer support. The small general store has become a makeshift command center where people gather for support and information. Does your community have a place that everyone would gather at? Where would it be?
3. I love to cook, but in my wake the kitchen looks like a tornado hit it! What is something you love to make and eat but only do it on certain occasions because preparation or clean-up is a hassle?
~ I honestly can't think of anything off the top of my head except to say Everything. What I mean is I hate cooking for 1 & I hate throwing things away. Coming from an environment where there were always tons of people around to cook for, now that I am basically on my own, I am not very successful cooking for just myself. As a result, I frequently find food going to waste so I don't cook meals or bake that often unless there is someway I can be creative with it in several ways or find folks to share it with so that it doesn't go to waste.
05/02/2008 Entry: "Pastor Dave's First MI-5"
Pastor Dave says:
"Hello Blogging Family,
This is my first time at coming up with weekly the questions. I hope its OK with protocol - I'm going to give you FIVE RIDDLES to solve. My sister sent them to me earlier this week. ENJOY!"
#1 A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven't eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him?
~Lions - If they haven't eaten in 3 yrs they'd be dead
#2 A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him under water for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How can this be?
~She photographed him, developed the print & then hung the photo
#3 What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and gray when you throw it away?
~Your Checking account? (the real ans was charcoal)
#4 Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday?
~Yesterday, Today & Next Day? (yesterday today & tomorrow)
#5 This is an unusual paragraph. I'm curious as to just how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it. It looks so ordinary and plain that you would think nothing was wrong with it. In fact, nothing is wrong with it! It is highly unusual though. Study it and think about it, but you still may not find anything odd. But if you work at it a bit, you might find out. Try to do so without any coaching!
~Ya got me, English has never been my strong subject I want to believe there is something grammatical about it. Or maybe it's a counting thing - either way, I am missing it (real ans.. There are no "e's" in the paragraph)
04/25/2008 Entry: "Jim Takes the MI-5 Wheel"
1. What is your personal policy regarding locking your car?
~It depends where I am. At work, all the time unless I have someone coming by to get something from me while I am at work and all too often (to Kari's disappointment) it ends up locked then too. At home though, its a 50/50 thing. If nothing is in it then I leave it unlocked unless however I am walking to my door in the dark, then I hit the locks off & on so that the headlights illuminate my way.
2. If you had to do it all again would you choose the same career path?
~I have learned so much and had some many experiences & got to meet quite a few folks I might not otherwise have encountered had I not gone the path I did. Then again there are things that I would have liked to have tried had I done things differently but there is always still time. It would have been awesome if back when the internet was new I had the foresight to own a few big domain names before the mega cooperations wanted them. The folks who jumped on that opportunity found they were able to trade for some good cheese.
3. What is something you hope to do this summer?
~Grow a successful garden & visit the islands, oh & most importantly feel the warmth of the sun on my skin on a consistent basis. I miss the natural heat of that huge glowing thing in the sky!!!! hmph - Global warming my butt!!!!
4. Tell us something you are thankful for right now.
~My dog. He has the best personality and is the coolest companion. I am very fortunate to have him.
5. Tell us of a book, movie, tv show, webisode, author, CD, musician, comedian or any form of entertainment you have been digging lately.
~ABC's LOST
Over a year ago I decided to cancel my Direct TV that I had subscribed to for over 5 years. I had gotten to the point where I was only watching Prime Time shows on the 3 major stations & the season finale's were coming up & I didn't want to pay to watch reruns. I had been so busy with life that I didn't miss the TV & shortly into last season they had the writers strike so I saw no reason to turn it back on. I have grown accustomed to only having CBS (although I do miss some of my favs on the other stations). At the time Lost 1st aired I had missed the 1st half of it but I kept hearing the buzz of how great it was and decided I needed to see it from the beginning. Because I had shut of Direct TV I decided to Netflix again. One of the 1st TV Series in my queue was ABC's LOST. I stayed up until 2:30 some nights watching the DVD's. I was/am so sucked into this show. It has great writing, drama, action, twists and plot lines. If you haven't seen it, I recommend it but I also recommend not watching it in the middle. You MUST watch if from the beginning. I Caught an episode on ABC before I went Analog & lost my over air signal - Yea living in the boonies!!! Honestly I was not interested in the show after watching that episode because I just didn't get it. I mean I understood the show but I didn't get the flow and writing and didn't feel the characters. That is because of how it is written, you do need to watch it from the beginning. Its like trying to watch 24 from the 8th episode, you just don't get it. ABC's LOST is some seriously good TV
04/18/2008 Entry: "Bill's Beloved's MI-5"
His beloved (wife) says: "Here are some more questions from "You Gotta Be Kidding!" a book I purchased at Julia's book fair several months ago. The only rule is: You must choose from one of the 2 answers, "neither one" is not an acceptable answer. If you would like you can explain your choice."
Would You Rather:
1. Sleep each night with 2 harmless bats in your bedroom OR Always have 5 pigeons hanging out in your bathroom?
~ I am going with the bat's here. They don't make that much noise or that much of a mess & I have a huge yard and have seen a few field mice (thanks to the cat) so I am guessing the bat's might not be a bad edition. Also the question didn't specify if they were caged or not so I am going on the assumption they are :-)
Now if the pigeons were the "GoodFeathers" I might have to ponder this question a little longer.
2. Sleep on the sidewalk for a week straight in normal weather OR Sleep for 1 night on the sidewalk in the pouring rain?
~ Considering how uncomfortable sleeping on the sidewalk would be, I'll take the rain, and get it over in one night.
3. Never be able to smile OR Never be able to dream when you sleep?
~ I love to smile, I feel the endorphins kick in every time my lips curl up. I can't imagine not ever doing it. Dreaming however is cool too but often, I don't recall them and the ones I do tend to be a bit odd so I wouldn't feel like I was missing out if I never had one again.
4. Not be able to read OR Not be able to talk?
~ Most certainly talk, I can sign a little bit & write all I want so I can still communicate. If I couldn't read my world would be seriously limited and I would miss out on so much amazing knowledge not to mention some pretty entertaining stories.
5. Bang your funny bone 5 times in a row OR Listen for 20 minutes to someone scraping their nails down a chalkboard?
~ Bring on the chalkboard, that sound never bothered me.
04/11/2008 Entry: "Bill's Sister's Restaurant MI-5"
Bill's sister said:
"This week's five is a little different... I'd like you to pick five restaurants that you have never been to before. Go to their online menu, and tell me what you would order. I know. I always have food on the brain!"
These are in no particular order other than how I happened to pull them up on line.
1. http://www.carouseldinnertheatre.co
APPETIZER - SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE FONDUE
Creamy fondue crock blended with cheese, baked and served with freshly-baked French baguette
MAIN ATTRACTION ENTRE - SEAFOOD TRIPLE PLAY
Tender filet of salmon topped with snow crab stuffing and crispy bread crumbs escorted by two mouth-watering shrimp served with light lemon cream sauce. Accompanied by sun-dried tomato rice pilaf
DESSERT - FUNNEL CAKE SUNDAE - Golden fried funnel cake tossed in cinnamon sugar topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry.
2. http://www.medievaltimes.com/home.aspx
Guests feast on garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare rib, herb-basted potatoes, pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of select beverages.
3. http://mysterycafe.com/shows_mysterycru
The meal goes with the show - the current one is: The Mobfather
Delectable Antipasto Salad
A wonderful refreshing feast of crisp greens mingled with mortadella, capiocola, salami, and provolone cheese; vegetables, tasty Mediterranean olives and pepperocinis drizzled with our minced fresh herbs, balsamic Dijon vinaigrette
Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Topped with our own savory fresh Basil Roma Plum Tomato Sauce
Chicken Marsala
Light and delicious with sautéed mushrooms
Mouthwatering Meatballs
From Mama Lena’s Kitchen, served with freshly grated cheese
Gala Apple Crisp
Scented with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves
4. http://www.anthonysdinnertheater.co
Again the meal is already decided
Meatball Minestrone Soup
Broadway Salad
Shrimp Scampi on Skewer
Stuffed Shells Alfredo with Meatball
Tiramisu
Vanilla Ice Cream
Coffee
5. http://www.benihana.com/
Yes I am all about entertainment when it comes to eating out
04/04/2008 Entry: "Welcome to the Neighborhood MI5"
Amy says: Since we have some new peeps playing along I thought I would do some basic questions. Since I love INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO I thought I would use the Bernard Pivot questions asked by James Lipton. Since we only usually ask five questions feel free to just answer the five questions you like best…or answer all 10 for extra brownie points.
1. What is your favorite word?
~Pickle: I just love the sound of the word
2. What is your least favorite word?
~ That would be a certain curse word that describes female genitalia in a very derogatory way and is also used as an insult when directing it at another individual. Everything about it just reeks of negativity & disrespect. Not to mention the sound the word makes is just awful.
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
~ Music is amazing at altering my moods but a good story (fact or fiction) can really get me charged up in a creative & spiritual manner.
4. What turns you off creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
~ Negativity & stubbornness
5. What sound or noise do you love?
~The honest laughter of young children
6. What sound or noise do you hate?
~ Verbal abuse
7. What is your favorite curse word?
~ Shazbot
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
~ Something that allows me to be creative that involves some form of information gathering research or School Guidance Councilor :-)
9. What profession would you not like to do?
~ Forensic Pathologist (I see dead people)
10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
~ I'm so glad you made it, welcome home. I've got so much to tell you but 1st do you want to hear a funny joke?
03/28/2008 Entry: "Paddy's All About Jobs MI-5"
1) Think back now. What was your first REAL job ... you know, one that you had a W-2 from at the end of the year. Tell us about it:
I am pretty sure it was McDonalds when I was 14. I can't seem to remember a job where I actually filled out a W2 before that. I worked there the entire school year. I only took time off twice. Once was to go home early because I accidentally reached into the fry oil. It was a reflex action. I dropped the fry tongs & instinctively reached in after them. I experienced a miracle that day. My hand turned beat red fast & thanks to quick thinking co-workers & those cool orange pumpkin happy meals my hand went into a bucket of ice mighty fast & as a result I didn't even have a blister. I did go through a lot of ice though & it was several hours before I braved removing my hand from the bucket. The worst thing that happened was my hand was pink for a few days. Amazing & true. I ended up quitting when just before summer when I broke my big toe. I had to be on crutches for a few weeks so I took some time off then shortly after I returned to work, I decided it was time for me to enjoy being a kid for a while.
2) Everybody has had a favorite job, perhaps one that they are still in. What was yours?
I worked as the inventory control supervisor for Metro PCS. It wasn't very challenging but I enjoyed it. mostly because I had a fun staff and the company was pretty great too. I enjoy what I do now for the most part. More than other jobs I have done, including those for the same company. There are parts of my job that I enjoy much more than any other job I have ever worked before. I love the chance to teach & be appreciated for my ideas, knowledge & creativity. I often volunteer for or create opportunities with this company so that I am exposed to those situations.
3) Remember that job that you thought would be great ... that wasn't? Tell us about your biggest career-related error in judgment:
Working for RAINBOW - It was great money and great people and I love the product but I discovered a fear/anxiety I had that I didn't previously know existed. Years after I worked for another company that was similar in style (Silversand Photography) but provided a much different approach & was much easier to market. It helped me to deal with this fear and become more of a people person. It also helped me hone my sales skills. Neither of these were my biggest career error. I seem to recall working for a company for a very short time and quitting because I didn't feel the fit was right & didn't like the high pressure. Not to mention I felt the demographic they were marketing to was all wrong so for me, that career was short lived. So short that I can't even recall the name of the company. I want to say it was SkyTel but I can't be certain. I feel as if the name was Metro Communications or Uni-something. I can't be certain. They were one of the 1st companies to introduce 2 way messaging pagers. The company focus however was the professional business. My thought was they would be better off with the teens & 20-30 demographic. I seem to recall that not long after I left, so did the company.
4) What is more important to you in your career choice: Money or Satisfaction? Or both ... or something else? Explain:
As long as I can pay my bills & enjoy my life, I don't care how little I make. I just want to love what I do and enjoy my time while I am away from home and be appreciated.
5) OK, it's dream job time. For the sake of this exercise, we'll assume that you can at least make a comfortable living wage from the work ... regardless of its nature. So, what is it that you would choose to do, day in, day out, to earn your daily bread?
I would love to be one of the folks who got to travel all over and share interesting findings with others.
Example - Great Vacation homes, Incredible getaways, Amusement parks, kind of like that chick from the travel channel Samantha Brown or if I was skilled, I would love to be a carpenter like Amy Wynn from Trading Spaces or Paige Hemmis from Extreme Makeover Home edition. Not because of money or fame. I don't care about that aspect of it - actually I prefer not to be that famous. I just think the experience to be had would be amazing.
03/23/2008 Entry: "Holy Week MI-5"
This week is the week many Christians refer to as "Holy Week." Here are five questions inspired by the week. Well, inspired in a low-brow way!
1) Palm Sunday. On this day, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt--one that had never been ridden before. What's the most unusual form of transport you've ever been on? Fighter jet? Submarine? Dog sled?
~ I am going with unicycle here - I wasn't on it long though
2) Maundy Thursday. On Thursday of Holy Week, Christ and His disciples ate the Last Supper. What would you want to eat for your final meal?
Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings & as soon as my tummy was ready for more, a turkey samich made from the luscious leftovers. Thanksgiving dinner is eaten in stages ya know :-)
3) Good Friday. Christ is crucified. What's the most excruciating physical pain you've endured? (And just so we can get some cool/interesting answers, ladies please eliminate child birth. We know that hurts wicked!)
~ The following is not for the squeamish...
Not that long ago I had developed a bartholin cyst that had grown to about the size of a quarter by the time I had decided I needed surgical assistance to have it drained/removed. Since I have an allergy to novacane, the standard numbing agent they would normally use prior to incision was not an option. What they tried using instead was apparently weaker & quite unsuccessful. After 3 incredibly painful shots of something for the pain that did not work a bit, my doctor was left with a decision, try yet again with another injection & hope this one takes or simply make an incision with the scalpel that would allow it drain with the belief that the release of pressure would reduce the pain. He went with that option. Imagine someone taking a razor blade & dicing up your girlie (or boy) parts with nothing to reduce the discomfort. Holy guacamole dip batman that was wicked painful - I screamed and the poor nurse who let me hold her arm, I am pretty sure I left her with bruising that lasted a few days. She did warn me it was going to be incredibly painful, more so than whatever I was going to do to her arm. I think she was right on the money with that one. That was the 1st and hopefully the LAST one of those I'll ever have.
4) Holy Saturday. It's sometimes observed with silence. Can you think of something significant to share dealing with silence?
~ Shhh I'm thinking
5) Easter Sunday. The Lord is raised from the dead. Even many non-religious people celebrate Easter in some fashion. Do you have a family tradition on Easter? A dinner? An egg roll (the rolling of eggs on a lawn, not a noodle rolled around napa and bok choy!)? If you're Jewish and playing along, how about a Passover family tradition?
~ Actually no, Since it's just me during the holidays I don't really do anything in the form of tradition.
I do use the time to reflect on the amazing sacrifice and love He displayed for me and allow it to motivate me to make more of an effort to remember that everyday instead of just at Easter. I also (traditionally) try to avoid the commercialism of the holiday and after, I have been known to take advantage of the discounted candy!
03/14/2008 Entry: "My Sister's Comforts of Home MI-5"
My sister Lisa says: "A benefactor wishes to set up a get away apartment for you. This is just a small place for you to escape to when the going gets rough and you just need some time away for yourself. He wants to know what things he can put in it that would really make it feel like home for you. He obviously cannot just go out and buy people or sentimental things (so don't pick those kind of items, no matter how much you might want them), but he really wants to make the place special for you. What can he buy for you with relative ease?"
1. Name one big ticket item;
A home theater complete with surround sound & all the movies I love or would love to see
2. Name two authors whose complete works you would like to see in the library;
James Patterson & God
3. Name three musical artists whose complete works you would like to see loaded into the mp3 player;
Third Day - Paolo Conte & Armik
4. Name four things you would like to see in the food pantry and/or refrigerator;
Tea, Turkey, Tuna & dill pickles
5. Name five other things.
Tons of Candles everywhere, Kohler's "Sök" with chromatherapy for the bathroom, A laptop with high speed access, a garden & a beautiful fire place.
03/07/2008 Entry: "Aunt Ginny's Retirement MI-5"
Aunt Ginny says: In 25 days I will be retiring from the best job I ever had. Naturally, it is on my mind quite a bit! Even if you don't work for pay full time right now, What do you think it will be like?
1. At what age do you see yourself retiring?
I don't think I'll make it to that age. Can't say why I just don't see myself living long enough to enjoy retirement. Maybe that is because with the way our economy is going, I can't see that I will ever have retirement as an option unless I win the lottery & I don't play.
2. Are you actively planning for that now? How?
Not really, I wish I had the discipline and understanding of the proper way to budget and save for that day, but "life" always seems to come up. Not to mention - See question 1
3. Do you think that you will "come out of retirement" at least once? To do what?
Again see #1 - I don't predict that I will have the opportunity to even go into it.
4. Will you have a career after retirement? Paid? volunteer?
I would love to volunteer but again I direct you to #1
5. Will you just take one last look around, close the door behind you, and keep walking? Or, will it be a slower, more gradual, more thoughtful process?
Eh, I see it as more of an extended vacation. I'd probably visit from time to time in the beginning. Just to see old friends & stay in the know. Eventually (if I made it) my life would present other adventures to keep me busy.
03/04/2008 Entry: "A Late MI-5"
1. How many times have you moved in your life?
More than 10 probably even more than 15.
2. What is the worst part of moving for you?
the packing & unpacking part of deciding what gets to stay & what has to go
3. What are your thoughts on long car trips?
Great if I am not alone & we get to Geocache along the way
4. Tell us your preferred method of travel.
Really Long distance - Plane but with friends and a plan for adventure along the way Car most certainly
5. Has a friend ever come through for you in a way that surprised you?
Many years ago when I was a kid, my little brother was riding his bike & around the corner came a guy speeding in his van. He hit my brother and dragged him under the van a ways until my brother ended up coming out the back. I watched the whole event. There was a woman who said she lived across the street from us but I had never talked to or seen before. When the incident happened she must have heard it because she came out of her apartment and acted as if she knew me. She felt like a favorite aunt or someone close. She comforted me with her words & her reassuring touch. Staying with me the whole time until my mother arrived. She was so calming & nurturing to me during that horrific ordeal. It surprises me still when I think back on it. Mostly because I don't remember ever seeing her before and never saw her again after that day. She was like an angel of comfort when a kid needed one the most.
02/22/2008 Entry: "Susan's MI-5"
Susan says: "These questions come, once again, from the "Coke or Pepsi" book I bought at Julia's last book fair."
1. Are you always up-to-date on the news?
Rarely. It's only recently that I began watching the Early show as part of my morning ritual
Local news I hardly ever watch. Before coming to Maine, I avoided the news. It was always full of such garbage & violence and sports. I didn't care about any of that. I use the internet now for my news source and even then I just glance the headlines & only read deeper on the things that interest me.
2. What is your favorite hot beverage?
Coffee. With chocolate mint truffle creamer - YUMMMMMY
3. Would you rather go to the museum of art or natural history?
I'd rather go to the natural history museum. I've been to a few art museums and enjoy them but I have never been to the Natural History Museum & have always wanted to go.
4. The best food comes from which country?
I am pretty sure it is Italy - I'd say Thailand but really what we get here at the restaurants is nothing like what they serve over there.
5. Would you rather bicycle through Europe or go on an African Safari?
I almost went with African Safari on this one because I LOVE photographing animals & to see them up close like that would be awesome. Then I remembered the other side of it - 100+ degree heat, biting bugs galore and so much dirt up your nose from all the dust your truck makes that you could erect a small sand box by the time your trip was through. So bicycle through Europe. What a great way to see some of those fantastic cities. Providing I was in good enough shape with a comfortable bike seat :-)
02/15/2008 Entry: "Amy's MI-5"
(This makes two weeks in a row for the MI-5. Are we back in a groove?)
Amy says: "Next week I will be going on a vacation. These are vacation inspired questions."
1. What is the longest vacation you have ever been on?
A month! In 2006 I went to California. Ok so it was a working vacation. It certainly didn't feel like work to me.
2. Where is your favorite place to vacation?
I am going with California again on this one. I only got to see a speck of it while I was there. What I saw was quite entertaining, interesting, enjoyable and with all the variety to suit any whim, it's the perfect place to visit.
3. Name some place you would like to go on vacation that you haven't been before?
New York City or Jamaica - Unless you count a cruise around the world a place.
4. When you vacation do you like to plan out every minute or roll with the flow?
I plan a few things just to have an idea or a starting point but I primarily go with the flow.
5. Are you more of an ocean person or a mountain person?
I am both. That is why I live in Maine. The ocean is across the street & a mountain (small as it may be) ends in my back yard.
Whew! That was a lot of back trackin - Ok back to gardening :-)
